Arlana Bickell
Arlana Bickell is from Chippewas of Rama First Nation, I completed two programs at Georgian College; Occupational Therapy Assistant and Physiotherapy Assistant & Therapeutic Recreation. I played on the OCAA Women’s Varsity Volleyball team while at Georgian. I am currently a full-time student at the Ontario Tech University in the Kinesiology program. I have extensive volunteer experience in working with a variety of populations in my communities, including children and youth. I am currently a volunteer coach for an age 5 & 6 team as well as an age 15-17 team. I am also a Director at Large for our community soccer club which involves assisting with player registrations, assisting other coaches and equipment and field maintenance I also have volunteer experience on advisory committees and other community events. In my spare time, I enjoy playing volleyball, soccer, and baseball. Arlana is part of the 2019 ISWO Summer Staff Team and says, “I am interested in furthering my experience and being involved in culturally based programs, competitive and recreational sport opportunities and leadership development initiatives for Indigenous Youth and Communities.”
What is the role of sport/physical activity in your life?
The role of sport or rather volleyball has had a huge impact on my life, from learning to play in elementary school, playing through all of my high school years, to competing in competitive leagues and playing varsity level in college. I also had the opportunity to coach a girls rep team through Orillia Suns Volleyball Club where we medalled at provincials. This was a huge accomplishment for me as a new volleyball coach and for the team of girls as the majority of them it was their first year playing volleyball as well. It was very rewarding to see them develop and improve over the season, a truly exceptional opportunity. I find that volleyball has a sense of community to it. I attend school in Oshawa so one of the first activities I looked for once I knew my school schedule was to find a volleyball league to join. Some of my closest friends that I have I met through volleyball, not only does it create friendships, it also builds on collaboration and teamwork just like any other sport, you have to work together to achieve your goal.
How do you define wellness?
I define wellness as being 100% you 100% of the time, if you truly want to feel well and do well, I believe it’s being true to yourself. Although there may be days here and there that are overwhelming, it is about cherishing those good days and living in and enjoying the moments with your friends, family and loved ones while living your life. I know that may sound super corny and fake, but it is about the attitude and effort you put into it!
What are the things you do each day that make you a ‘Wellness Warrior’?
I like to switch things up every now and again, and by that I mean have variety; sometimes I might take my dogs for a walk, go do a challenging workout at the gym or just sleep in some days. I strive to make everyday part of the balance in my life.
Who or what is your inspiration?
I have many motivators and people that inspire me to be my best and aim to keep a balance in my life.
